By Paul Effiong, Abuja
In a move to strengthen legislative diplomacy, Malawi’s First Deputy Speaker, Madalitso Kazombo, yesterday, led a high-profile parliamentary delegation to the National Assembly Complex Abuja.
In his address during the visit to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, the leader of the Malawian delegation disclosed that his country can learn many things from Nigeria through diplomatic relations.
The lawmaker, who used the opportunity to commend Nigerian parliamentarians for their legislative hardwork, disclosed that his country got independent from Britain in 1964.
Speaking under the theme: “Strengthening Parliamentary Ties between Nigeria and Malawi,” the Malawian lawmaker pledged his country’s determination to forge a lasting relation between them and Nigeria.
He informed that the visit is aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation, legislative capacity building as well as democratic governance between the two black nations.
Receiving the delegation, Kalu underscored the importance of sharing legislative best practices and most particularly in the areas of constitutional reform and public engagement.
He, therefore highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing constitution review process which he explained includes proposed amendments aimed at increasing women’s participation in governance and encouraging youth involvement through lower age for elective positions.
The deputy speaker also emphasized the urgency for African parliaments to collaborate in addressing continental challenges.
He decried the continued migration of Africa’s youth to Europe and called for greater intra-African cooperation to create local opportunities and sustainable legislative development frameworks.
According to him, “We must work together to harness our collective resources for the betterment of the continent”.
In his remarks, Kazombo used the opportunity to acknowledged Nigeria’s legislative advancements while echoing the call for deeper cooperation.
He shared insights into Malawi’s multiparty transition and highlighted the crucial role parliament plays in entrenching democratic norms.
He, however spotlighted Malawi’s efforts to involve more young people in leadership, citing his own rise in politics as an example of youth with potential.
Both leaders agreed on the need for sustained legislative exchange, with discussions touching on the possibility of establishing a Malawian High Commission in Nigeria.
The historic visit marked a renewed commitment to inter-parliamentary collaboration, setting the stage for future initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive governance and regional development across Africa.
He informed that he contested and won under private candidacy in his country, adding that they operate under a five-party system.
Meanwhile the visiting lawmakers revealed that their country has 193 members in paliament with measures in place to promote gender equality.
